Completing the PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) certification is a significant milestone for any project management professional. It signifies that you have mastered one of the most globally recognised methodologies for managing projects effectively.
But now that you’ve ticked this box, what’s next?
Whether you’re looking to specialise further, enhance your career prospects, or simply deepen your knowledge, there are several exciting paths you can explore.
Leverage your PRINCE2 certification in your current role
Before diving into additional certifications or advanced studies, it’s worth considering how you can make the most of your PRINCE2 qualification in your current role. PRINCE2 emphasises practical application, so it may help if you focus on:
- Implementing PRINCE2 practices: Use the principles, themes, and processes in your day-to-day project work. Demonstrate your ability to plan effectively, manage risks, and deliver successful projects
- Leading projects with PRINCE2: Volunteer for roles where you can apply your expertise, such as project lead or manager. Showcasing your knowledge will position you as a go-to person for project management
- Mentoring colleagues: Share your knowledge with teammates, helping them understand how PRINCE2 principles can improve project outcomes
This real-world application will solidify your understanding of the methodology while earning recognition from peers and superiors.
Advance to PRINCE2 Practitioner certification
If you’ve earned the PRINCE2 Foundation certificate, the logical next step is to pursue the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification. While the Foundation level focuses on understanding the terminology and structure of PRINCE2, the Practitioner level is about applying the methodology in real-world scenarios.
Why pursue PRINCE2 Practitioner?
- It certifies your ability to tailor PRINCE2 principles to specific projects
- Many organisations prefer or require Practitioner-level certification for senior project roles
- It enhances your credibility and employability in project-focused industries
The Practitioner certification is a natural progression for those wanting to deepen their expertise and take on more challenging projects.
Broaden your knowledge with related certifications
PRINCE2 is a robust framework, but the world of project management is vast. Complementing your PRINCE2 qualification with additional certifications can broaden your skill set and open up new career opportunities. Some popular options include:
Agile certifications
With businesses increasingly adopting agile methodologies for flexibility and speed, combining PRINCE2 with agile certifications can be a winning strategy. Options include:
- PRINCE2 Agile: Designed specifically for those with a PRINCE2 background, this certification integrates agile practices with the PRINCE2 framework. Explore PRINCE2 Agile here.
- SAFe Scrum Master: Focus on Scrum, one of the most popular agile methodologies and learn how to create Scrum events and enable continuous improvement. Sign up for SAFe Scrum Master Certification.
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library)
ITIL certifications are a great addition if you work in IT service management. They focus on aligning IT services with business needs and improving service delivery.
- ITIL 4 Foundation: This ITSM course helps develop an operating model for continually improving tech-related projects, products and services. Explore ITIL 4 here.
- ITIL 4 Digital and IT Strategy: This course is ideal for developing a digital strategy and forming the foundation for IT projects across the organisation.
Business analysis certifications
If you find yourself drawn to the planning and requirements-gathering aspects of projects, consider business analysis certifications like:
- BCS Foundation Certification in Business Analysis: This course uncovered strategy, investigation and requirements engineering. Explore BCS is Business Analysis.
Specialise in an industry or sector
Project management spans various industries, from construction and healthcare to IT and finance. If you’re keen to specialise, consider certifications or courses tailored to a specific sector. For instance:
- Construction project management: Certifications like PMP with a focus on construction or specialised courses in civil engineering project management
- Healthcare project management: Training in managing projects in healthcare settings, such as certifications offered by healthcare-focused organisations
- IT project management: Gain skills in managing software development projects or IT infrastructure projects through courses or IT project management boot camps
Develop complementary skills
A project manager’s role often requires more than technical know-how. Strengthening your soft skills and related competencies can set you apart from the competition. Focus on areas like:
- Leadership and communication: Enhance your ability to inspire teams and communicate effectively with stakeholders
- Risk management: Deepen your understanding of identifying, analysing, and mitigating project risks through specialised risk management certifications.
- Change management: Learn how to manage the human side of change with certifications like Change Management Practitioner
These skills complement your PRINCE2 knowledge and make you a well-rounded professional.
Network and join professional communities
Building a network of like-minded professionals can open doors to new opportunities and keep you updated on industry trends. Consider:
- Joining professional associations: Organisations like PMI or APM (Association for Project Management) offer networking events, webinars, and resources for members
- Attending industry events: Conferences, workshops, and seminars are excellent platforms for learning and connecting
- Participating in online communities: Engage with project management forums, LinkedIn groups, or social media communities to exchange ideas and stay informed
Networking can lead to mentorship opportunities, career advancements, and even collaborations.
Explore new career opportunities
Armed with your PRINCE2 certification, you can explore new roles or industries. PRINCE2 is highly sought after in sectors such as IT, finance, healthcare, construction, and government. If you’re considering a career change or advancement, update your CV and LinkedIn profile to reflect your PRINCE2 expertise.
Be proactive in seeking out roles that align with your interests and long-term career goals. Highlight how your PRINCE2 knowledge can bring value to prospective employers.
Stay updated and continue learning
Project management is dynamic, with new methodologies, tools, and trends emerging regularly. Stay ahead of the curve by:
- Reading industry publications: Follow blogs, journals, and websites dedicated to project management
- Learning new tools: Familiarize yourself with project management software like Microsoft Project, Jira, or Trello
- Attending refresher webinars: TSG Training regularly hosts webinars and updates resources to boost continued learning.
Completing your PRINCE2 certification is a commendable achievement, but it’s just the beginning of your journey. There are countless paths to explore, from advancing to the Practitioner level and pursuing complementary certifications to networking and exploring new roles. Take the time to reflect on your interests and career goals, and choose the path that aligns with your vision for the future.
The project management landscape is full of opportunities, and with your PRINCE2 certification in hand, you’re already ahead of the curve. Now is the time to build on this foundation, expand your horizons, and achieve even greater heights in your career.
The possibilities are endless – so where will you go next?
